Sir, - I noted with interest the comments of your columnist Kevin Myers (An Irishman's Diary, September 4th). I should point out to Mr Myers that PDFORRA has had no role or responsibility in the totally unnecessary damage to soldiers' hearing over the years. The fact that the courts and more often the Department of Defence regularly pay compensation directly resulting from the injuries sustained is clear evidence of where the responsibility lies. The authorities were aware of the damage being caused to soldiers' hearing as far back as 1952, but failed to take appropriate action until 1987. This entire area could be resolved with expediency and a massive reduction in expense if the Minister for Defence would establish a tribunal - as recommended by PDFORRA.
In relation to the forthcoming White Paper on Defence, Mr Myers appears to be more aware of and concerned about the future of the Defence Forces than those tasked with this responsibility. I have had an opportunity to see the terms of reference for the forthcoming White Paper on the Defence Forces. It is so obvious that this is another attempt to downsize and undermine an organisation which is at rock bottom in terms of morale.
The Defence Forces have never had the benefit of a clearly defined policy, or indeed the necessary resources to do what the Government tasked it to do, especially at the most crucial periods in its history.
At the outset of "The Emergency" (1939), UN Missions (1960) and "The Troubles" (1969), the Defence Forces were so under-resourced in every respect that only luck and the pride of individual Irish soldiers saved the day.
The hearing controversy can now be used to destroy the Defence Forces - our Defence Forces - or the White Paper can be the catalyst for a proud, professional, well-equipped organisation of at least three brigades with effective air and naval support. - Yours, etc., John Lucey,
General Secretary, PDFORRA, Capel Street, Dublin 1.